The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Chapter 1131

"The effects?" Vivienne interrupted Brody's lament over Connor's fate with a tone that was sharp yet laced with curiosity.

"Oh, it's pretty significant!" Brody's eyes shimmered with avarice. "It numbs the nerves, gradually corroding them to make room for new cells to take root. Downing it sends you into a state of self-loss, with brief moments of clarity at random times each day. It won't kill you -consider it a form of mental and physical torture. Similar to what you're familiar with, yet vastly different. Death isn't an option under its influence, and as for an antidote, haven't gotten around to that yet." As soon as Brody finished, Connor felt an intense gaze pierce him. He turned to Vivienne in panic, only to see a strange gleam in her eyes.

"If that's the case, why not test it on him? I'm quite eager to see if it really works as you describe."

Before anyone could react, Brody strode forward, forcing the concoction down Connor's throat. Connor struggled weakly, to no avail, as Brody relentlessly continued until he lost consciousness.

Vivienne, devoid of any sympathy, watched Connor's limp form. "Go easy on him. I don't need you breaking my toys permanently."

"Don't worry. He won't die without my permission. The cells will intervene at any sign of self-harm," Brody reassured her.

Vivienne nodded and returned to her lab bench, engrossed in her work.

Hours passed, with Vivienne lost in her research, not once breaking for food. Anna glanced over, concern etched on her face. "Ms. Vivienne, maybe you should eat something? It's been quite a while since you took a break." Vivienne looked up. "Did you order takeout?"

Embarrassed, Anna gestured towards the entrance where Percival stood, holding a strawberry cheesecake.

you get here?" Vivienne's eyes lit up

you've been cooped up here for hours and hadn't headed back, so I thought I'd check on you. Lost track of time again?" Percival set down

the familiar taste bringing a smile to her face.

smudge of cream from her lip.

silent, the mention of the kids reminding them of their

the kids," Vivienne mumbled, checking the time.

up before they

faces a mix of disappointment and anxiety as they

leaving them with their increasingly worried teacher. "Hasn't your dad messaged to say he'd be late? I've got

fell, feeling betrayed. Isaiah,

with Griffin, was surprised by the call. "What's up, buddy?" Isaiah's

Leopold panned

Isaiah," Griffin greeted, her warmth failing to thaw Isaiah's icy

Leopold to gear up for a rescue mission, which

to head home, the siblings

their way